Mining News

Biochar potential in northern mine reclamation

Earlier this month, the Northern Latitudes Mining Reclamation Workshop was held in Whitehorse, Yukon in conjunction with the
Canadian Land Reclamation Association’s Annual Meeting. The workshop brought together some of Canada’s brightest reclamation
experts to “share information and experiences among varying stakeholders undertaking reclamation and restoration
projects…” 1

Several papers presented at the workshop studied the use of a soil amendment known as ‘biochar.’ Biochar is the charcoal-like
byproduct that results from burning biomass under limited oxygen conditions. This process is known as pyrolysis. The material is
then added to soils to promote plant growth and hydrocarbon degradation. While this product is proven to be effective in southern
climates, the Yukon Research Center at Yukon College is seeking to determine if biochar can have the same impact in the sandy soils
and climates typical to the north.

The study of the applicability of biochar is particularly relevant given the steady growth of the mining sector in Canada’s north
and the subsequent need for restoration and remediation strategies specific to the region. Relatively low levels of organic matter,
low pH and high metal content characterize mine sites, particularly in the north. 2 Moreover, the already thin layers of
fertile soil can easily be lost during the mining process. These conditions make the re-establishment of vascular plants far more
difficult.

While the presentations concerning the subject of biochar focused heavily on scientific matters involving soil characteristics,
seedling emergence rates, and the effectiveness of hydrocarbon remediation, continued study in this field has interesting implications
for northern reclamation efforts. While Petelina et al. found that peat was a more effective soil amendment in northern
Saskatchewan, it is not always locally available. 3 Additionally, transportation of organic media to remote
communities may be cost prohibitive for the miner. This presents an excellent opportunity for sustainable business development,
particularly in remote aboriginal communities. Biochar can be produced locally through establishing on or near-site facilities, recycling
local organic wastes to be used as inputs. Typical biochar feed stocks include wood, fish byproduct and even animal bone/bone meal.
Benefits of this nature may be hard to overlook for prospective miners. By tailoring reclamation efforts specific to local restoration
needs, the potential for cost reductions may be realized. However, these reports and groups such as the Canadian biochar initiative
underscore the need for further research into the feasibility of biochar’s application in the north.

As northern mining continues to develop in parallel with environmental regulations, it is vital to consider the opportunities new
techniques may provide, particularly if they lead to quicker returns of reclamation bonds.